Introduction

Red raspberry is a plant that grows raspberry fruit. The red fruit and leaves have been used as an antioxidant to help slow damage to cells and to control blood glucose. The berry can be eaten raw or taken as a juice, syrup, or extract. The fruit and leaves can be taken as a pill, powder, or extract. Red raspberry can also be made into a tea or used as a cream.

Dosages

There are no advised doses for red raspberry.

What Research Shows

There is not enough data to support that red raspberry is helpful in treating health problems. We will review future studies as they are published.

Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.

Safety Notes

It is likely safe to use red raspberry on the skin and to take it orally in small doses for a short time. Not enough studies have been done to say whether it is safe to use for a long period. It is not known whether it is safe to take by women who are breastfeeding. Large amounts of red raspberry during pregnancy should be avoided.1

Interactions

Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse.

 

References

1. Simpson M, Parsons M, et al. Raspberry leaf in pregnancy: its safety and efficacy in labor. J Midwifery Womens Health. 2001 Mar Apr;46(2):51-59.

Last reviewed July 2019 by EBSCO NAT Review Board Eric Hurwitz, DC